Dodane Type 21 French Military Chronograph

Early in the 1950s the French Army required a specific chronograph for their Air Force, seeking technical specfications for the ideal military watch. They required a watch with a 38mm diameter with a black dial and, importantly, a flyback complication to reset all hands with one push of a button. Many brands from Breguet to Vixa supplied watches to the French Army yet, when the specifications became increasingly refined, only Dodane stood up to the task of creating the most reliable military timepiece.

This example remains in pristine condition for its age. The watch dates to 1976-1977 (as two years are subtracted from the first FG date, as the service interval was 2 years). The case back shows 'fat font' military engravings, protecting a Valjoux 23 hand wound movement with the triangle on the lower part of the balance bridge. No elements have been changed. The bezel on this example is the version with pointed '4', medium knurls and large dots between numbers- correct for this serial range. Its 'stubby' crown is also consistent with 016/017 models.

A 100% correct Dodane in outstanding condition, this brilliant vintage military watch is the perfect collector's item and a relic of French military history.